Teen Think Tank started with three Ohio teen librarians who liked to collaborate. Rikki Unterbrink (Shelby County Libraries), Erin Gillespie (Findlay-Hancock County Public Library), and Steve Moser (Dayton Metro Library) shared ideas and brainstorming on a regular basis. One day they realized that it would be great to get even more people sharing ideas and helping to brainstorm when needed. Teen Think Tank grew from that conversation. The team has grown since then to also include Valerie Laukhuf (Putnam County District Library), Sarah Amazing (Warren-Trumbull County Public Library), Bryan Overholt (Bexley Public Library), and Kristin Wilson (Loudonville Public Library).

The goal of the Teen Think Tank is for each attendee to leave with at least one new contact and a handful of new ideas for programs, decorations, crafts, books, and more. Each presentation throughout the day is carefully planned to keep everyone actively involved. When attending Teen Think Tank, you try the games, make the crafts, construct the decorations and see the books.

Learning Objectives:

Network with fellow teen librarians

Learn new programming ideas, crafts, games, and decorations

Hear about young adult literature

The Day's Agenda
Doors Open, Check-in, Flair exchange
Introductions and hands-on mini activity
Pep talk: Why we are so important and call to action
Open Group Discussion: Best programs you’ve done
Hands-On Activity: Temporary tattoos
Active movement moment: Wink Murder/Electric Current
Small Groups